Eureka police cracking down for motorcycle safety

The Eureka Police Department will conduct a motorcycle safety enforcement operation this month through September, according to authorities.

During the operation, extra officers will be patrolling areas where there are frequent motorcycle crashes to look for violations committed by drivers or riders, according to an EPD press release. Officers will also crack down on those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding or making illegal turns or other dangerous violations.

There were 23 injury motorcycle collisions — two of which were DUI-related — but no fatalities in Eureka in 2013, according to the release. So far this year, there have been eight collisions resulting in six injuries and one fatality.

California collision data show the main causes include speeding, unsafe turns and drug or alcohol impairments, according to the release. Between 2008 and 2010, there was a 37-percent drop in motorcycle fatalities, but the number jumped 23 percent by 2012.

This operation is aimed at stopping a rise in motorcycle deaths and reducing the number of accidents, according to the release. EPD asks motorists to watch for motorcyclists when turning or changing lanes, and to be aware that lane splitting is legal if done safely.